But while Hull goalkeeper Allan McGregor made a couple of good saves, including a stop at the end of the first-half that the Goal Decision System proved did not cross the line, Chelsea never hit the heights of their early play.

"It is three points and no doubt a deserved victory,'' Mourinho said. "It was a brilliant first half. High intensity, high quality.

"The second half was not the same as the first but that is not a surprise because our pre-season has not been an easy one. It was a very good level. The game was always under control.''

Mourinho thanked the Chelsea fans for their support on his return, but called on them to now turn their focus to cheering on the players.

"It is something we don't forget. I made the right move by coming back; I am one of them and I am so pleased and happy,'' he said.

"I need my team to be supported and I need the fans to sing the players' names. Enough with Mourinho now and come on Chelsea. It's enough, I know they love me. Now it is my time to work for them and work for the team.''